This weekend retreat in Surat retains old elements from a pre-existing structure and brings colourful interior pieces and detailing to add in many doses of contemporary elegance.
The foundational idea for this weekend retreat in Dumas, Surat, designed for a couple in their 40s, was to continue the old-world charm of the original 1937 property. This meant including the outhouse already located at the plot, along with a huge verandah and a sloping roof.
The design starts with the semi-covered connection between the old and the new unit, which will now be used as an open dining space. The space is located around an existing tree and is partially covered by a bridge connecting the two units at an upper level. This is also the main entrance foyer to the house.
The interior of the weekend house has been designed with an intent of taking maximum advantage of the views of the lush green landscape outside. Indeed, the large glass-pane windows with wooden framing allow expansive sights of the outdoors from the rooms inside. The entire house is clad in treated wood on the outside, and also retains a large sloping roof from its past.
“The design was inspired by chic styling. It is a mix of furnishings in different finishes, colours and styles, and also sourced from different eras,” states the team from Surat-based Aangan Architects.
The elaborate floor rugs in vibrant colours and the detailed weaving pattern play a very important role in the design of the house.
